This species was transferred to the genus Sphaerotheca by Dubois 1987. Dubois (1987) considers Sphaerotheca strachani as either incertae sedis within Sphaerotheca or as a synonym of S. breviceps. Here we retain S. strachani and S. pluvialis as synonyms of S. breviceps here until their taxonomic status is fully established. The taxonomy of Sphaerotheca breviceps needs further investigation.

Justification:
Listed as Least Concern in view of its wide distribution, tolerance of a broad range of habitats, presumed large population, and because it is unlikely to be declining fast enough to qualify for listing in a more threatened category.

This species is widespread throughout South Asia from Pakistan in the west, through India, Nepal and Sri Lanka, to Chitten Wildlife Sanctuary, Sagaing in central Myanmar (Zug, 1998). It possibly also occurs in Bangladesh. It is probably more widely distributed through the Irrawady plains but no specific records are available. It has been reported at elevations from sea level up to 1,500m asl.

It is a generally common species through most of its range. It is locally common at Sagaing Wildlife Sanctuary in Myanmar, but is strongly seasonal (Zug, 1998). It is regarded to be common in Sri Lanka outside the central hills.

It has been reported from many habitats including seasonal, deciduous forest, arid plains and scrubland, grassland, areas of human habitation, plantations, and temporary stagnant wetlands in the breeding season (ponds). Adults are often found under ground cover.

It is found in several protected areas within its range. There are no conservation measures needed based on the current understanding of its distribution, taxonomy and population status. It is protected by national legislation in India.